When a 10 year-old boy found out his service dog needed special medical treatment, he stepped up to the challenge by offering to sell some the most prized possessions for a child his age: his toys.

The boy, Connor Jayne, was initially paired with Copper, his service dog, to help him with a range of disorders including PTSD, ADHD, and nocturnal epilepsy. Through the dog’s interventions over the course of two years, Jayne has seen a reduction of the severity of his symptoms.

After Copper began to experience difficulty walking, veterinarians suspected a neurological condition known as Wobbler Syndrome was the cause. To be sure, however, they would need to perform a series of expensive tests. Jayne’s family, unable to afford the tests and potential treatments, were at a loss. Jayne himself, however, knew exactly what he needed to do.

Jayne offered to sell some of his toys through a yard sale at his home. Inspired by her son, Jayne’s mother, Jennifer, created a crowdsourced campaign to raise additional funds for Copper’s tests. Initially hoping to raise the $2,800 needed for the initial tests, the campaign eventually fetched over $17,000 for Copper’s diagnosis and treatment.

Thanks to Connor Jayne’s actions and the contributions of the crowdfunders, the Jaynes were able to afford the testing which revealed some form of spinal disk disease to be the probable cause. While additional testing will be needed to determine the specifics of Copper’s problems, the Jaynes remain optimistic.

“We are still in shock at the overwhelming support. We never expected anything like this as it started with Connor just wanting to have a bit of control in a situation he couldn’t control. He knew he could sell his toys and help with cost and it helped to give him a sense of purpose for his best friend. We also hope it helps raise awareness to the importance of service animals and our role to help them as well.”

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